Veterinary Assistant

Animal Emergency and Specialty Hospitals of Grand Rapids and Byron Center; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Animal Emergency and Specialty Hospitals of Grand Rapids and Byron Center is seeking a dedicated Veterinary Assistant to join our on-site team in Grand Rapids, MI. You will support veterinarians and technicians with daily patient care, handle animals, assist with examinations, prepare treatment areas, monitor patients, restock supplies, and help with diagnostics.

You will also communicate with clients about basic pet care and patient updates.

Qualifications

• Basic knowledge of common veterinary procedures and terminology.
• Ability to monitor patient status and assist with exams.
• Experience in fast-paced, emergency-focused environments is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Support veterinarians and technicians with daily patient care.
• Handle animals, prepare treatment areas, and monitor patients.
• Restock supplies and assist with diagnostic procedures as directed.
• Communicate with clients about basic pet care and patient updates.
• Support front desk during check-in and discharge; collaborate with clinical team.

Skills

Animal Care

Pet Care

Client Education

Customer Service

Veterinary Knowledge

Attention to Detail

Time Management

Safety Protocols

Experience in Vet Clinic

Education

Veterinary assistant program

Equivalent training

Job description

Company Description Animal Emergency and Specialty Hospitals of Grand Rapids and Byron Center is a collaborative community of veterinary professionals dedicated to high-quality emergency and specialty care. United by a commitment to animal well-being, the teams work closely with referring veterinarians, clients, and colleagues to deliver comprehensive, compassionate services. The hospitals strive to be the preferred provider of advanced veterinary care in West Michigan, offering a supportive environment for both patients and staff. Team members are encouraged to grow professionally while contributing to exceptional animal care and client experiences.

Role Description The Veterinary Assistant is a full-time, on-site role based in Grand Rapids, MI. In this position, the individual supports veterinarians and veterinary technicians with daily patient care, including handling animals, assisting with examinations, preparing treatment areas, and monitoring patients. Responsibilities include maintaining clean and safe hospital environments, restocking supplies, and helping with diagnostic procedures as directed. The role also involves communicating with clients about basic pet care, providing updates on patient status, and supporting the front desk team with check-in and discharge. The Veterinary Assistant collaborates closely with the clinical team to ensure efficient, compassionate care for animals in emergency and specialty settings.

Qualifications

• Candidates should possess skills in Animal Care and Pet Care, including safe handling, basic husbandry, and monitoring of patient comfort.
• Candidates should possess skills in Client Education and Customer Service, including clear communication, empathy, and the ability to explain basic care instructions.
• Candidates should possess foundational knowledge of Veterinary Medicine, including familiarity with common procedures, terminology, and clinical workflows.
• Relevant skills such as attention to detail, time management, and the ability to work in a fast-paced, emergency-focused environment are beneficial.
• Prior experience in a veterinary clinic, animal shelter, or related setting, and completion of a veterinary assistant program or equivalent training are preferred.
• Ability to stand for extended periods, safely lift and restrain animals of varying sizes, and follow hospital protocols for safety and infection control.